The Greatest Gift - Hardcover

Stern, Philip Van Doren; McKowen, Scott

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0670862045 ISBN 13: 9780670862047

Publisher: Michael Joseph, 1996

Synopsis

The short story that inspired the movie It's a Wonderful Life is included here along with an afterword by the author's daughter that tells how the story shaped the movie and accolades from the stars and director of the movie. 50,000 first printing. $40,000 ad/promo.

About this title

Review:

A new lease of life for a forgotten Christmas classic.
The story that inspired It's a Wonderful Life is finally back in print!

independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/a-new-lease-of-life-for-a-forgotten-christmas-classic-6265752.html --The Independent, Tuesday 22nd November, 2011

From the Publisher:

Cluster Publishing is proud to present a charming new edition of the book that inspired It's a Wonderful Life!

For more than half a century, the heart-warming tale of It's a Wonderful Life! has been synonymous with Christmas. But while Frank Capra's famous 1946 movie has inspired generations of fans, few will be aware of the book's provenance.
Back in the late 1930s, US historian Philip van Doren Stern had a dream so detailed and profound, he felt compelled to turn it into a book. In 1943, Stern's dream was realised when he self-published 200 copies of The Greatest Gift, sending it to family and friends in lieu of a Christmas card. The book soon came to the attention of RKO Pictures and went on to form the basis of what is probably the best-loved festive film of all time.

Now, for the first time in 67 years, the original story is back in print. With an afterword by the author's daughter and charming, hand-drawn illustrations by acclaimed artist Finlay Cowan, The Greatest Gift retains its homespun, forties feel -- and the fact that it is co-published courtesy of Graphic Image Inc., whose founder Benett Glazer was among the original recipients of the author's story, only adds to the personal nature of this project.

About this edition

• Publisher: Michael Joseph
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0670862045
• ISBN 13: 9780670862047
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 72